As white smoke rises above the Sistine Chapel, signaling the election of a new pope, the world awaits not only the face but also the name of the Church’s next spiritual leader. One of the most symbolic moments in the papal election occurs behind closed doors, when the newly chosen pope is asked a simple but profound question: “By what name shall you be called?”
This tradition, steeped in centuries of history, began officially in 533. Until then, popes generally retained their birth names upon election. However, a notable exception came before the tradition was formalized—Pope Mercurius, who found it unsuitable to rule the Church under the name of a Roman pagan god, chose to be known instead as John II, honoring his predecessor who had died as a martyr.
Since then, papal name changes have become a cherished custom. The last pontiff to retain his baptismal name was Marcellus II, elected in 1555. While the practice has endured for nearly 1,500 years, it is not bound by any official rule. The chosen name is entirely up to the new pope—he may choose to keep his given name, though none have done so in nearly five centuries.
Names chosen often carry deep meaning. Popes frequently select names to honor past saints, mentors, predecessors, or values they aim to embody during their papacy. In 1978, for example, Cardinal Albino Luciani made history by choosing a double name—John Paul I—in tribute to John XXIII and Paul VI, the two popes who influenced him most. His successor, Cardinal Karol Wojtyła, took the name John Paul II, continuing the legacy.
When Pope Francis was elected in 2013, he too broke new ground. His name, never before used by a pope, was inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, a champion of humility and the poor. According to Pope Francis, the name came to him after a fellow cardinal reminded him: “Don’t forget the poor.”
Throughout history, some papal names have risen to prominence. John leads the list, with 23 popes choosing it. Gregory and Benedict follow, each with 16, while Clement (14), Innocent (13), and Pius (12) have also been frequently selected.
Yet, the Vatican has also seen 44 unique papal names that were used only once—names like Anacletus, Linus, Valentine, and Francis remain singular in papal history, standing as reminders of the individuality and intent behind each choice.
As the world awaits the next successor of Saint Peter, the chosen name will once again offer a glimpse into the vision and heart of the new leader of the global Catholic Church. It is a decision both personal and historic, and one that signals the tone of a new papal chapter.